By Milcah Tanimu
Sokoto State Governor, Dr. Ahmed Aliyu Sokoto, submitted a budget proposal of N270.1 billion for the 2024 fiscal year to the State Assembly on Friday. The education sector emerged as the top recipient with an allocation of N42.8 billion, followed by the health sector with over N31 billion. The budget breakdown indicated a focus on capital expenditure, accounting for N172.2 billion, while recurrent expenses reached over N98 billion.
Presenting the budget under the theme “Budget of Hope and Resilience for Infrastructural Development,” the governor emphasized the administration’s commitment to its nine-point smart agenda. This strategic approach aims to enhance the state’s economic prosperity through the implementation of projects that prioritize the well-being of the citizens.
Governor Aliyu clarified that the budget reflected the aspirations of the people, underscoring the administration’s determination to bring about positive changes for the benefit of all residents. Despite challenges such as insecurity and economic downturn, the governor highlighted achievements in urban sanitation, road repairs, salary payments, and the renovation of government house entry points.
The governor expressed optimism about the decline in banditry and outlined plans to reinforce citizen protection by strengthening collaboration with security agencies. He pledged support to security agencies through the provision of necessary equipment and logistics, including vehicles.
In response, the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Tukur Bala Bodinga, praised the governor for the timely presentation of the budget. He assured that the budget would undergo necessary scrutiny to support the administration’s pursuit of its nine-point smart agenda. The Speaker also pledged to facilitate a harmonious working partnership to sustain the governor’s efforts for the benefit of Sokoto State.
Dignitaries in attendance included the Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar; former Speaker of the State Assembly, Lawali Labbo Margai; former Minister of Police Affairs, Muhammadu Maigari Dingyadi; and former Deputy Governor, Abdullahi Chiso Dattijo.
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